JP2011076562A - Mobile device, notifying method, and notification program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a mobile device capable of urging a user to charge a secondary battery at proper timing, and to provide a notifying method and a notification program. <P>SOLUTION: The mobile device driven by a chargeable and dischargeable secondary battery to execute predetermined processing has: a remaining power detecting means for detecting a remaining battery power of the secondary battery; a consumption current calculating means for calculating the average value of consumption current consumed by executing the predetermined processing; a processing amount calculating means for calculating an executable amount of the predetermined processing on the basis of the remaining battery power detected by the remaining power detecting means, and the average value of the consumption current calculated by the consumption current calculating means; and a notifying means for notifying the user of the mobile device of the executable processing amount of the predetermined processing calculated by the processing amount calculating means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a portable device driven by a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery, a notification method using the portable device, and a notification program.

In recent years, with the miniaturization of electronic devices, portable devices driven by secondary batteries such as lithium ion batteries have become widespread. Examples of the portable device include a mobile phone, a digital camera, a music player, and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) player.
Is installed.

  Usually, in such a portable device, the remaining battery level is displayed on a display or the like in order to prevent the portable device from becoming unusable due to running out of the battery. The user of the portable device can use the portable device with awareness of the remaining battery capacity by this display. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a portable printer having a display panel that displays a remaining battery level.

JP 2005-297477 A

  However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, the remaining battery level can be detected only in three stages, and the accurate remaining battery level cannot be detected. Therefore, it is difficult to notify the user of an appropriate timing for charging the secondary battery.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a portable device, a notification method, and a notification program that can prompt a user to charge a secondary battery at an appropriate timing. The purpose is that.

  The present invention employs the following configuration in order to achieve the above object.

The present invention is a portable device (100 to 100H) that is driven by a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery (211) and executes a predetermined process,
A remaining amount detecting means (240) for detecting the remaining amount of the secondary battery (211);
Consumption current calculation means (120) for calculating an average value of consumption current consumed by execution of the predetermined processing;
Based on the remaining battery level (211) detected by the remaining battery level detection means (240) and the average value of the current consumption calculated by the current consumption calculation means (120), the predetermined process can be executed. A processing amount calculating means (130) for calculating the amount;
Notification means (150, 18) for notifying the user of the portable device (100 to 100H) of the executable processing amount of the predetermined processing calculated by the processing amount calculation means (130). .

  In the portable device of the present invention, the notification means (150, 18) may be means for notifying the executable processing amount by voice.

  In the portable device of the present invention, the notification unit may be a unit that displays the executable processing amount.

The present invention is a notification method by a portable device (100 to 100H) driven by a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery (211) and executing a predetermined process,
A remaining amount detection procedure (S32) for detecting a remaining battery level of the secondary battery (211);
A consumption current calculation procedure (S36) for calculating an average value of consumption current consumed by execution of the predetermined process;
A processing amount calculation procedure (S44) for calculating an executable amount of the predetermined processing based on the battery remaining amount and the average value of the current consumption;
A notification procedure (S45) for notifying the user of the portable device of the executable processing amount of the predetermined processing.

The present invention is a notification program executed by a portable device (100 to 100H) driven by a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery (211) and executing a predetermined process,
In the portable device (100 to 100H),
A remaining amount detecting step (S32) for detecting a remaining battery level of the secondary battery (211);
A consumption current calculation step (S36) for calculating an average value of consumption current consumed by execution of the predetermined process;
A processing amount calculation step (S44) for calculating an executable amount of the predetermined processing based on the remaining battery level and the average value of the current consumption;
A notification program for executing a notification step (S45) of notifying a user of the portable device of an executable processing amount of the predetermined process.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prompt the user to charge the secondary battery at an appropriate timing.

It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of a 1st portable apparatus. It is a figure explaining the functional structure of the portable apparatus of 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart explaining calculation of the average value of the consumption current in the portable apparatus of 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart explaining the display of the executable processing amount in the portable apparatus of 1st embodiment. It is a figure explaining the battery pack mounted in a portable apparatus. It is a figure which shows the hardware constitutions of monitoring IC. It is a figure explaining the functional structure of the residual amount detection part of monitoring IC. It is a figure explaining the functional structure of the portable apparatus of 2nd embodiment. It is a figure explaining the functional structure of the portable apparatus of 3rd embodiment. It is a figure explaining the function structure of the portable apparatus of 4th embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which notifies the executable process amount in 5th embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which notifies the executable process amount in 6th embodiment. It is a figure explaining the function structure of the DVD player of 7th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which notifies the amount of executable processes in 7th embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which notifies executable process amount in 8th embodiment. It is a figure explaining the function structure of the portable navigation apparatus in 9th embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen which notifies executable process amount in 9th embodiment. It is a figure explaining the controller of 10th embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the controller of 10th Embodiment. It is a figure explaining the function of a controller and a main part in a 10th embodiment. It is a figure explaining the audio | voice data output device of 11th embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the receiver of 11th Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the transmitter of 11th Embodiment. It is a figure explaining the function of the audio | voice data output device of 11th embodiment.

In the present invention, the amount of processing that can be executed by the portable device is calculated based on the remaining amount of the secondary battery, and the charging of the secondary battery at an appropriate timing is used by notifying the user of the calculated amount of processing. Can be encouraged.
(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the first portable device. The portable device 100 according to the present embodiment includes an input device 11, an output device 12, a drive device 13, an auxiliary storage device 14, a memory device 15, an arithmetic processing device 16, a communication device 17, and a notification that are connected to each other via a bus B. The device 18 is configured.

  The input device 11 is a device for inputting data to the mobile device 100. The input device 11 is, for example, an operation button such as a power key or a numeric keypad, and data input to the mobile device 100 may be various signals for operating the mobile device 100, for example. The input device 11 may be a device that inputs data processed by the portable device 100 from the outside and output from the output device 12, for example.

  The output device 12 is a device for outputting input data. The output device 12 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or the like, and may display a guidance screen for guiding the operation of the mobile device 100, a progress status of processing executed on the mobile device 100, or the like. Further, the output device 12 may be a device that outputs data obtained by processing data input from the input device 11 to the outside, for example.

  The communication device 17 is a device for the mobile device 100 to communicate with other devices. Specifically, the communication device 17 is an antenna or the like provided in the portable device 100, for example. The communication device 17 is responsible for processing for transmitting and receiving data from the antenna.

  The notification device 18 is a device for notifying the device state of the mobile device 100. The device state indicates, for example, the available time of the portable device 100, the executable processing amount, and the like. Specifically, the notification device 18 may be, for example, a device that outputs a sound or a device that outputs a buzzer sound. Moreover, the apparatus which displays a message may be sufficient.

  The display control program of the present invention is at least a part of various programs for controlling the mobile device 100. The display control program is provided by, for example, distribution of the recording medium 19 or reception via the communication device 17. The recording medium 19 on which the display control program is recorded is a recording medium that can be read by the portable device 100 such as a memory card.

  When the recording medium 19 on which the display control program is recorded is set in the drive device 13, the display control program is installed from the recording medium 19 to the auxiliary storage device 14 via the drive device 13. The display control program received via the communication device 17 is installed in the auxiliary storage device 14.

  The auxiliary storage device 14 stores the installed display control program and stores necessary files, data, and the like. The memory device 15 reads and expands the display control program from the auxiliary storage device 14 when the portable device 100 is activated. The arithmetic processing unit 16 implements various processes as described later according to the display control program developed in the memory device 15.

  Next, the functional configuration of the mobile device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the mobile device according to the first embodiment.

  The portable device 100 according to the present embodiment has a built-in battery pack 200 and operates by being supplied with power from the battery unit 210 of the battery pack 200. The battery pack 200 includes a monitoring IC 220 that monitors the state of the battery unit 210. The monitoring IC 220 includes a remaining amount detection unit 240 that detects the remaining battery level of the battery unit 210. Details of the battery pack 200 will be described later.

  The mobile device 100 according to the present embodiment includes a specific process execution unit 110, a consumption current calculation unit 120, a processing amount calculation unit 130, a storage control unit 140, a notification unit 150, and a setting unit 160.

  The specific process execution unit 110 executes specific processes that can be executed by the mobile device 100. The consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of consumption current during the process execution by the specific process execution unit 110. The processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates a processing amount that can be executed by the specific process execution unit 110 based on the remaining battery level of the battery unit 210.

  When the portable device 100 of the present embodiment is a portable printing device, for example, the specific process execution unit 110 realizes a printing process. The consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of consumption current during execution of the printing process. The processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates an executable printing amount. The print amount may be, for example, the number of printable characters or the number of printable sheets.

  For example, when the portable device 100 of the present embodiment is a digital camera, the specific process execution unit 110 executes a shooting process. The consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of consumption current during execution of the imaging process. The processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates an executable photographing amount. The photographing amount may be, for example, the number of images that can be photographed.

  The storage control unit 140 stores the average value of the consumption current calculated by the consumption current calculation unit 120 and the executable processing amount of the specific process execution unit 110 calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 in the memory device 15 or the like. The notification unit 150 reads the executable processing amount stored in the memory device 15 or the like by the storage control unit 140 and causes the notification device 18 to notify it.

  The setting unit 160 sets whether to perform notification by the notification device 18. Specifically, for example, when a setting for notifying the executable processing amount is made by the input device 11 or the like, the setting unit 160 stores the setting in the memory device 15 or the like and sets it.

  Next, the operation of the mobile device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining calculation of an average value of current consumption in the mobile device of the first embodiment. The following processing is performed when the setting unit 160 is set to notify the executable processing amount.

  When the execution of the process by the specific process execution unit 110 is started (step S31), the consumption current calculation unit 120 acquires the remaining amount information from the battery pack 200 when the execution of the process is started (step S32). The acquired remaining amount information is stored in the memory device 15 or the like by the storage control unit 140.

  When the execution of the process by the specific process execution unit 110 ends (step S33), the current consumption calculation unit 120 acquires the remaining amount information from the battery pack 200 again (step S34). The acquired remaining amount information is stored in the memory device 15 or the like by the storage control unit 140. Next, the consumption current calculation unit 120 acquires information on the process execution time by the specific process execution unit 110 (step S35). The execution time of the process is performed by a time measuring function (not shown) of the mobile device 100.

  The consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates the average consumption at the time of execution of the process by the specific process execution unit 110 based on the remaining amount information at the start of execution of the stored process, the remaining amount information at the end of execution, and the execution time information of the process. The current is calculated (step S36). The calculated average consumption current is stored in the memory device 15 or the like by the storage control unit 140 (step S37).

  Note that, in the portable device 100 of the present embodiment, the average current consumption changes depending on, for example, the volume of data handled during processing execution. Therefore, it is preferable that the consumption current calculation unit 120 of the present embodiment periodically calculates the average consumption current during processing execution.

  Next, notification of the executable processing amount in the mobile device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the display of the executable processing amount in the mobile device of the first embodiment.

  When the portable device 100 is instructed by the input device 11 to execute the process executable process by the specific process execution unit 110 (step S41), the processing amount calculation unit 130 acquires the remaining amount information from the battery pack 200 ( Step S42). Subsequently, the processing amount calculation unit 130 reads out the average current consumption at the time of execution of processing stored in the memory device 15 or the like (step S43).

  Next, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates an executable processing amount of processing by the specific processing execution unit 110 based on the acquired remaining amount information and the read average current consumption (step S44).

  Next, the notification unit 150 notifies the user of the calculated executable processing amount (step S45). In the mobile device 100 according to the present embodiment, for example, when the notification device 18 is a device that performs voice output, the notification unit 150 notifies the user by outputting the executable processing amount calculated by the notification device 18 as a voice. You may do it.

  In the portable device 100 of this embodiment, for example, when the notification device 18 is a device having a display function, the notification unit 150 may display the executable processing amount calculated by the notification device 18 as a message. In the portable device 100 of the present embodiment, for example, when the notification device 18 is a buzzer or the like, the notification unit 150 causes the notification device 18 to use the buzzer when the calculated executable processing amount becomes a predetermined amount or less. May be notified to the user that the executable processing amount is small.

  In FIG. 4, the example in which the executable processing amount is calculated and notified in response to the notification instruction has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the portable device 100 according to the present embodiment periodically calculates the executable processing amount, and may notify the notification unit 150 when the executable processing amount becomes equal to or less than a predetermined amount.

  Here, the battery pack 200 built in the portable device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a battery pack mounted on a portable device.

  The battery pack 200 includes a battery unit 210 to which a plurality of secondary batteries 211 such as lithium ion batteries are connected. In the present embodiment, the battery unit 210 has a configuration in which the secondary batteries 211 are connected in series, but is not limited thereto.

  The battery pack 200 includes a monitoring IC 220 and a protection IC 230 between the battery unit 210 and the positive terminal 212 and the negative terminal 213 for connecting to the portable device 100 on which the battery pack 200 is mounted.

  The monitoring IC 220 monitors the state of the battery unit 210 and acquires the state information of the battery unit 210. When the monitoring IC 220 receives a status information reference request from the mobile device 100, the monitoring IC 220 provides the acquired status information to the mobile device 100.

  The monitoring IC 220 includes a power supply terminal VDD and a reference potential terminal VSS, a voltage detection terminal VBAT1, a pair of current detection terminals VRSP and VRSM, and a communication terminal SIO. The monitoring IC 220 receives the voltage regulated from the battery voltage in the protection IC 230 via the power supply terminal VDD. The reference potential terminal VSS is connected to the negative electrode of the battery unit 210.

  The monitoring IC 220 can detect the output voltage of the battery unit 210 via the voltage detection terminal VBAT1 connected to the positive electrode of the battery unit 210. One current detection terminal VRSM is connected to the negative electrode of the secondary battery 211 and further connected to the other current detection terminal VRSP via the resistor R11 outside the monitoring IC 220.

  The monitoring IC 220 detects the current flowing through the external resistor R11, that is, the charging / discharging current of the battery unit 210 via the current detection terminals VRSP and VRSM. The communication terminal SIO is connected to the external terminal 214 used for communication with the mobile device 100 via the protection IC 230. The monitoring IC 220 of the present embodiment communicates with the mobile device 100 via the communication terminal SIO and the protection IC 230. Details of the monitoring IC 220 will be described later.

  The protection IC 230 protects the battery pack 200 from overcharge and overdischarge. The protection IC 230 has a terminal DOUT and a terminal COUT that are respectively connected to the gates of the MOS transistors M11 and M12 that block charging / discharging of the battery pack 200. The protection IC 230 shuts down the MOS transistor M11 by setting the DOUT output to a low level when overdischarge or overcurrent is detected, and shuts off the MOS transistor M12 by setting the COUT output to a low level when overcharging is detected by the overcharge detection circuit.

  Details of the monitoring IC 220 will be described below with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the monitoring IC. In FIG. 6, the monitoring IC 220 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 221, a sensor unit 222, a built-in memory 223, and a serial interface (I / F) 224.

  The CPU 221 controls each unit of the monitoring IC 220. In addition, the CPU 221 includes a remaining amount detection unit 240 that detects the remaining amount of the battery unit 210. The sensor unit 222 detects the voltage, current, and temperature of the battery unit 210. The built-in memory 223 stores information such as a program executed by the CPU 221 to control each unit of the monitoring IC 220 and each parameter of the voltage, current, and temperature of the battery unit 210 detected by the sensor unit 222. The serial I / F 224 communicates with the mobile device 100 via the communication terminal SIO. The CPU 221, sensor unit 222, built-in memory 223, and serial I / F 224 are connected by a bus 225 and can exchange data and programs among them.

  The sensor unit 222 includes a temperature sensor circuit 222a, a voltage sensor circuit 222b, a current sensor circuit 222c, a multiplexer 222d, and an analog-digital (A / D) conversion circuit 222e.

  The temperature sensor circuit 222 a detects the temperature of the battery unit 210. The voltage sensor circuit 222b detects the output voltage of the battery unit 210 via the voltage detection terminal VBAT1 connected to the battery unit 210. The current sensor circuit 222c detects the current flowing through the external resistor R11, that is, the charging / discharging current of the battery unit 210 via the current detection terminals VRSP and VRSM. Each output of the temperature sensor circuit 222a, the voltage sensor circuit 222b, and the current sensor circuit 222c is connected to the multiplexer 222d, and is output as one signal by the multiplexer 222d. The A / D conversion circuit 222e converts the signal output from the multiplexer 222d from analog to digital.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the remaining amount detection unit of the monitoring IC. In the present embodiment, the functional configuration of the remaining amount detection unit 240 shown in FIG. 7 is realized by a specific program stored in the built-in memory 223 shown in FIG.

  The remaining amount detection unit 240 includes a current value acquisition unit 231, a voltage value acquisition unit 232, a time measurement unit 233, a remaining amount calculation unit 234, a storage control unit 235, and a communication unit 236.

  The current value acquisition unit 231 acquires the current value detected by the current sensor circuit 222c. The voltage value acquisition unit 232 acquires the voltage value detected by the voltage sensor circuit 222b. The timer 233 measures time by a clock function built in the monitoring IC 220.

  The remaining amount calculation unit 234 calculates the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 based on the current value acquired by the current value acquisition unit 231 or the voltage value acquired by the voltage value acquisition unit 232 and the time measurement function of the time measurement unit 233.

  The storage control unit 235 stores state information such as the current value acquired by the current value acquisition unit 231, the voltage value acquired by the voltage value acquisition unit 232, the remaining capacity calculated by the remaining amount calculation unit 234, for example, in the built-in memory 223 is stored. The communication unit 236 communicates with the portable device 100 in which the battery pack 200 is built, and provides, for example, remaining amount information indicating the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 to the portable device 100.

  The portable device 100 performs notification by the notification unit 150 described above using the remaining amount information of the battery unit 210 detected by the remaining amount detection unit 240 in the monitoring IC 220.

  As described above, in this embodiment, based on the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210, the notification device 18 can notify the user of the process executable time in the portable device 100. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to prompt the user to charge the secondary battery at an appropriate timing, and it is possible to prevent the portable device 100 from being unusable in an unintended state while the portable device 100 is being used. .

(Second embodiment)
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The portable device according to the second embodiment of the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the consumption current calculation unit 120 and the processing amount calculation unit 130 are functions of a battery pack monitoring IC. In the following description of the second embodiment, only differences from the first embodiment will be described, and those having the same functional configuration as the first embodiment are used in the description of the first embodiment. The same reference numerals as those of the reference numerals are given, and the description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the mobile device according to the second embodiment. The monitoring IC 220 </ b> A included in the battery pack 200 </ b> A mounted on the portable device 100 </ b> A according to the present embodiment includes a current consumption calculation unit 120 and a processing amount calculation unit 130.

  In the monitoring IC 220A of the present embodiment, the consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates the average value of the consumption current during the process of the portable device 100A based on the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 detected by the remaining amount detection unit 240. Further, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates an executable processing amount based on the remaining capacity and the average value of current consumption.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

(Third embodiment)
A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The portable device of the third embodiment of the present embodiment is different from the second embodiment in that a monitoring IC is provided outside the battery pack 200. In the following description of the third embodiment, only differences from the second embodiment will be described, and those having the same functional configuration as those of the second embodiment are used in the description of the second embodiment. The same reference numerals as those of the reference numerals are given, and the description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the mobile device according to the third embodiment. The battery pack 200B mounted on the portable device 100B of this embodiment has only the battery unit 210.

  Further, the monitoring IC 220B of the present embodiment is provided outside the battery pack 200B, not inside the battery pack 200B. The monitoring IC 220B includes a remaining amount detection unit 240, a consumption current calculation unit 120, and a processing amount calculation unit 130.

  The remaining amount detection unit 240 of the monitoring IC 220B of the present embodiment detects the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 of the battery pack 200B based on, for example, a current flowing through the ground line of the main body of the mobile device 100B. The current consumption calculation unit 120 and the processing amount calculation unit 130 are as described in the first and second embodiments.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  Note that the battery pack 200B of this embodiment does not include the monitoring IC 220 as compared to the battery pack 200 of the first embodiment described with reference to FIG.

(Fourth embodiment)
Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The portable device of the fourth embodiment of the present embodiment is different from the third embodiment in that the consumption current calculation unit 120 and the processing amount calculation unit 130 are provided outside the monitoring IC. In the following description of the fourth embodiment, only differences from the third embodiment will be described, and those having the same functional configuration as the third embodiment are used in the description of the third embodiment. The same reference numerals as those of the reference numerals are given, and the description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the mobile device according to the fourth embodiment.

  A battery pack 200B is mounted on the portable device 100C of the present embodiment. In addition, the monitoring IC 220C of the present embodiment is provided not outside the battery pack 200B but outside the battery pack 200B.

  The monitoring IC 220C includes a remaining amount detection unit 240. The remaining amount detection unit 240 of the monitoring IC 220C of the present embodiment detects the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 of the battery pack 200B based on, for example, a current flowing through the ground line of the main body of the mobile device 100C. The current consumption calculation unit 120 and the processing amount calculation unit 130 are as described in the first and second embodiments. Therefore, in this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

(Fifth embodiment)
The fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The fifth embodiment of the present invention is a form in which the first to fourth embodiments are applied to a portable printing apparatus.

  In the portable device (hereinafter referred to as a portable printing apparatus) of the present embodiment, the specific process execution unit 110 executes a printing process. In the portable printing apparatus of the present embodiment, the input device 11 is a device for inputting print data, for example. The device for inputting print data may be a keyboard such as a numeric keypad. Further, the output device 12 of the present embodiment may be configured by a plotter for printing print data, a control means for controlling the plotter, and the like.

  Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is, for example, a voice output device, and may notify the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 by voice. Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is a display device, and may display the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130.

  The portable printing apparatus of the present embodiment may be used for meter reading of a meter such as gas, water, and electric power. Further, the portable printing apparatus of the present embodiment may be simpler than the hardware configuration shown in FIG. For example, the portable printing apparatus of the present embodiment may not have the drive device 13 and the auxiliary storage device 14 and may be configured not to read the recording medium 19.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for notifying the executable processing amount in the fifth embodiment. In the screen 51 shown in FIG. 11, the number of printable sheets is displayed as the executable processing amount. In the screen 51 of this embodiment, the available time of the portable printing apparatus is also displayed.

  In the case of a portable printing apparatus that does not have a display function, the screen 51 may be displayed on a computer or the like when it is dried via the communication device 17.

  Hereinafter, calculation of the executable processing amount in the portable printing apparatus of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the portable printing apparatus of the present embodiment, the processing amount calculation unit 130 stores, for example, current consumption when outputting one sheet of printing paper. Then, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the number of printable sheets as an executable processing amount based on the remaining capacity detected by the remaining amount detection unit 240 and the current consumption for each printing paper.

  In the portable printing apparatus according to the present embodiment, the processing amount calculation unit 130 stores, for example, the current consumption for each number of printed characters, and calculates the executable processing amount based on the current consumption for each number of characters and the remaining capacity. good. In this case, the executable processing amount may be displayed as the number of printable characters. Alternatively, the current consumption may be stored for each predetermined number of printed characters, and the executable processing amount may be calculated based on this current consumption.

(Sixth embodiment)
The sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The sixth embodiment of the present invention is a form in which the first to fourth embodiments are applied to a digital camera.

  In the portable device (hereinafter referred to as a digital camera) of the present embodiment, the specific process execution unit 110 executes an image capturing process. In the digital camera of this embodiment, the input device 11 is an operation device for operating the digital camera, for example. The output device 12 of the present embodiment is a device for outputting a captured image to a recording medium or an external device, for example.

  Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is, for example, a voice output device, and may notify the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 by voice. Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is a display device, and may display the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for notifying the executable processing amount in the sixth embodiment. In the screen 61 shown in FIG. 12, the number of shootable images is displayed as the executable processing amount. In the screen 61 of this embodiment, the available time of the digital camera is also displayed.

  The calculation of the executable processing amount in the digital camera of this embodiment will be described below.

  In the digital camera of the present embodiment, the processing amount calculation unit 130 stores, for example, current consumption when shooting one image. Then, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the number of shootable images as an executable processing amount based on the remaining capacity detected by the remaining amount detection unit 240 and the current consumption for each shooting.

  In the digital camera of the present embodiment, for example, the number of shootable images may be calculated according to the selected shooting mode. For example, in a digital camera, when a flash mode in which a flash light is emitted at the time of shooting is selected, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates and notifies the number of images that can be shot in the flash mode.

  In this case, the processing amount calculation unit 130 stores, for example, current consumption during shooting in the flash mode. When the flash mode is selected when receiving the instruction for the number of shootable images, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the number of shootable images based on the current consumption in the flash mode. The processing amount calculation unit 130 may calculate the usable time of the digital camera in the flash mode.

  In the present embodiment, with the configuration described above, the number of shootable images based on the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 can be notified, and only the number of shootable images corresponding to the free capacity of the recording medium (memory) is notified. Compared with a digital camera, the user can be prompted to charge at an appropriate timing.

  Further, when the digital camera of the present embodiment can capture a moving image, the current consumption calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of current consumption during moving image shooting, and sets the possible shooting time based on the average value calculated by the processing amount calculation 130. It may be calculated.

(Seventh embodiment)
The seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the seventh embodiment of the present invention, the first to fourth embodiments are applied to a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) player.

  In the portable device (hereinafter referred to as a DVD player) of the present embodiment, the specific process execution unit 110 executes a process of reproducing a moving image or a still image recorded on a DVD that is a recording medium set in the DVD player 100D. In the DVD player 100D of the present embodiment, the input device 11 is an operation device for operating a digital camera, for example. The output device 12 of the present embodiment is a display device that displays a reproduced image, for example.

  Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is, for example, a voice output device, and may notify the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 by voice. Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is a display device, and the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 may be displayed on the display device.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the DVD player according to the seventh embodiment. The DVD player 100D according to the present embodiment includes a reproduction time detection unit 170 and a viewability determination unit 171 in addition to the units included in the mobile device 100 described in the first embodiment.

  In the DVD player 100D of the present embodiment, the consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of the consumption current of the DVD player 100D during playback of a moving image recorded on the set recording medium. Based on the calculated average value, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the DVD viewable time as an executable processing amount.

  The notification unit 150 of the present embodiment displays the viewable time calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 on the output device 12 (display device). Further, the notification unit 150 may notify the viewable time by voice using the notification device 18.

  Further, in the DVD player 100D of the present embodiment, for example, when a DVD is set in the DVD player 100D, it can be determined and notified whether or not the DVD can be continuously viewed.

  When a DVD is set in the DVD player 100D of this embodiment, the playback time detection unit 170 detects the playback time of the set DVD. Next, the DVD player 100 </ b> D calculates the viewable time by the processing amount calculation unit 130. Then, the viewability determination unit 171 refers to the playable time and the viewable time, and determines whether the set DVD can be played continuously.

  The viewability determination unit 171 determines that viewing is continuously possible if the viewable time is longer than the playback time, and determines that viewing is not possible continuously if the viewable time is shorter than the playback time. When the viewability determination unit 171 of this embodiment determines that viewing is not possible continuously, the notification unit 150 may display a message to that effect on the display device.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for notifying the executable processing amount in the seventh embodiment. On the screen 71 shown in FIG. 14, the viewable time is displayed as the executable processing amount. In the screen 71 of this embodiment, the available time of the digital camera is also displayed. The screen 71 displays a message that prompts charging when the viewable time is shortened.

  In FIG. 14 of the present embodiment, the example in which the portable device of the first embodiment is applied to the DVD player 100D has been described. However, the second to fourth embodiments are similarly applied to the DVD player 100D. be able to.

(Eighth embodiment)
The eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The eighth embodiment of the present invention is a form in which the first to fourth embodiments are applied to a music data reproducing apparatus.

In the portable device (hereinafter referred to as a music data playback device) according to the present embodiment, the specific process execution unit 110 executes, for example, music data playback processing. Further, in the music data reproducing device of the present embodiment, the input device 11 may be an operating device for operating the music data reproducing device, for example.
The output device 12 according to the present embodiment is a device for outputting reproduced music data, for example. In the present embodiment, the music data may be recorded on the recording medium 19, for example, and read by the drive device 13 and recorded on the auxiliary storage device 14.

  Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is, for example, a voice output device, and may notify the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 by voice. Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is a display device, and may display the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for notifying the executable processing amount in the eighth embodiment. On the screen 81 shown in FIG. 15, the number of reproducible songs is displayed as the executable processing amount. In the screen 81 of this embodiment, the available time of the music data playback device is also displayed.

  Hereinafter, calculation of the executable processing amount in the audio data reproduction device of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the audio data reproducing apparatus of this embodiment, the consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of consumption current during reproduction of music data. In the present embodiment, the average value of the time taken to reproduce one piece of music data is calculated. The current consumption unit 120 calculates the current consumption for each music data reproduction based on the average value of the current consumption during music data reproduction and the average value of the reproduction time of one music. The processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the number of reproducible songs as an executable processing amount based on the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 and the current consumption every time one song is played.

(Ninth embodiment)
The ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The ninth embodiment of the present invention is a form in which the first to fourth embodiments are applied to a portable navigation device.

  In the mobile device of the present embodiment (hereinafter referred to as a portable navigation device), the specific process execution unit 110 executes, for example, a navigation process. In the portable navigation device of the present embodiment, the input device 11 may be an operation device for operating the portable navigation device, for example. Further, the output device 12 of the present embodiment is a device for outputting (displaying) position information acquired by navigation processing, for example, and is a display device.

  Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is, for example, a voice output device, and may notify the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130 by voice. Further, the notification device 18 of the present embodiment is a display device, and may display the executable processing amount calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the portable navigation device according to the ninth embodiment. The portable navigation device 100E according to the present embodiment includes a guidance availability determination unit 173 in addition to the units included in the portable device 100 described in the first embodiment.

  In the portable navigation device 100E of the present embodiment, the consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of consumption current during execution of the navigation process. The processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the available time of the portable navigation device 100E as an executable processing amount based on the calculated average value.

  The notification unit 150 of the present embodiment causes the output device 12 (display device) to display the available time calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130. Further, the notification unit 150 may notify the available time by voice using the notification device 18.

  The guidance availability determination unit 173 of the present embodiment determines whether guidance by navigation processing is possible until a destination is attached to the portable navigation device 100E. In the portable navigation device 100E of the present embodiment, when the destination is set, the guidance availability determination unit 173 causes the processing amount calculation unit 130 to calculate the available time. In addition, the guidance availability determination unit 173 acquires the location information of the destination, and calculates the required time to the destination. The guidance availability determination unit 173 compares the required time to the destination with the available time, and determines that guidance is possible if the required time is shorter than the available time. If the required time is longer than the available time, it is determined that guidance is impossible.

  When the guidance availability determination unit 173 determines that the guidance is not possible, the notification unit 150 causes the notification unit 150 to notify the available time and a message prompting charging.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen for notifying the executable processing amount in the ninth embodiment. On the screen 91 shown in FIG. 17, an available time and a message prompting charging are displayed as the executable processing amount.

  In FIG. 16 of the present embodiment, the example in which the portable device of the first embodiment is applied to the portable navigation device 100E has been described, but the portable navigation device is similarly applied to the second to fourth embodiments. 100E can be applied.

(Tenth embodiment)
The tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The tenth embodiment of the present invention is a form in which the first to fourth embodiments are applied to a controller of a game machine.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the controller according to the tenth embodiment.

  The controller 100F of this embodiment performs wireless communication with the main body 300 of the game device, for example, and transmits and receives information for advancing the game. The main body 300 is connected to the display 400, and displays a game play screen or the like on the display 400. In the present embodiment, the main body 300 and the display 400 are connected by wire.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the controller according to the tenth embodiment. The controller 100F according to the present embodiment includes the input device 11, the memory device 15, the arithmetic processing device 16, the communication device 17, and the notification device 18 included in the portable device 100 according to the first embodiment. The input device 11 of the present embodiment is an operation device that inputs operation information, for example. The operation information input by the input device 11 is transmitted to the main body 300 by the communication device 17. Information transmitted from the main body 300 is received by the communication device 17. The notification device 18 of this embodiment is, for example, a speaker.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the functions of the controller and the main body in the tenth embodiment. The controller 100F of the present embodiment includes a specific process execution unit 110, a consumption current calculation unit 120, a processing amount calculation unit 130, a storage control unit 140, a setting unit 160, and a battery pack 200 included in the mobile device 100 of the first embodiment. Have. Further, the controller 100F of the present embodiment includes a notification control unit 151.

  Also in the controller 100F of the present embodiment, the specific process execution unit 110 executes an operation information transmission / reception process for advancing the game. The consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of consumption current during transmission / reception of operation information. The processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the transmission / reception possible time of the operation information as an executable processing amount based on the average value of the current consumption. The notification control unit 151 notifies the user of the transmission / reception available time calculated by the communication device 17. Specifically, the notification control unit 151 causes the display 400 to display the transmission / reception available time calculated via the main body 300.

  The main body 300 is a computer having an arithmetic processing device and a memory device, and includes a notification unit 310, a charging unit 320, a charging time calculation unit 330, and a communication unit 340.

  The notification unit 310 notifies the display 400 of the transmission / reception possible time from the notification control unit 151 of the controller 100F. In addition, the notification part 310 of this embodiment may display the message which urges | charges the controller 100F on the display 400, when the transmission / reception possible time is shorter than predetermined time.

  The charging unit 320 includes a charging circuit that charges the battery unit 210 of the controller 100F. When the controller 100F is connected to the main body 300 for charging, the charging time calculation unit 330 is a time taken until the battery unit 210 is fully charged based on the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 of the controller 100F (hereinafter referred to as charging). Time).

  When charging of the battery unit 210 by the charging unit 320 is started, the main body 300 of the present embodiment displays the required charging time calculated by the charging time calculation unit 330 on the display 400 and notifies it.

  Further, the controller 100F of the present embodiment may notify the user of the transmission / reception available time by voice through the notification device 18 (for example, a speaker).

According to the present embodiment, for example, by notifying the user of the transmission / reception possible time of the controller 100F before the game starts, it is determined whether or not charging is necessary before the game starts, and the user is prompted to charge at an appropriate timing. be able to. Thus, for example, it is possible to prevent the battery from running out in a situation where it is difficult to interrupt the play, such as during the play of a competitive game. In FIG. Although the applied example has been described, the second to fourth embodiments can be similarly applied to the controller 100F.

  In the present embodiment, for example, the consumption current calculation unit 120 and the processing amount calculation unit 130 may be provided on the main body 300 side. In this case, the controller 100F transmits the remaining capacity detected by the remaining amount detection unit 240 to the main body 300. The main body 300 can calculate the transmittable / receiveable time based on the remaining capacity.

(Eleventh embodiment)
The eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The eleventh embodiment of the present invention is a form in which the first to fourth embodiments are applied to an audio output device.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining an audio data output apparatus according to the eleventh embodiment. The audio data output device 100G of the present embodiment includes a receiving device 100H and a transmitting device 500. Transmitting apparatus 500 transmits audio data to receiving apparatus 100H. The receiving device 100H outputs the received audio data. The audio data is stored in the transmission device 500. The receiving device 100H is driven by a secondary battery and performs wireless communication with the transmitting device 500.

  In the audio data output device 100G of this embodiment, the receiving device 100H is driven by the secondary battery in the receiving device 100H when it is separated from the transmitting device 500 as shown in FIG. In addition, when the receiving device 100H is set and connected to the transmitting device 500 as shown in FIG. 21B, the secondary battery is charged by the transmitting device 500.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the reception device according to the eleventh embodiment. The receiving device 100H of this embodiment includes an input device 11, an output device 12, a memory device 15, an arithmetic processing device 16, and a receiving device 17A. In the receiving device 100H of the present embodiment, the input device 11 is for operating the receiving device 100H, for example. The receiving device 100H of this embodiment is provided with, for example, an operation member that adjusts the sound volume when outputting audio data, and this corresponds to the input device 11.

  In the receiving device 100H of the present embodiment, the output device 12 is for outputting audio data. The communication device 17 performs wireless communication with the transmission device 500.

  FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the transmission device according to the eleventh embodiment. The transmission device 500 of this embodiment includes an input device 11, a memory device 15, an arithmetic processing device 16, a transmission device 17B, a notification device 18, and a charging device 20. In the transmission device 500 of this embodiment, the input device 11 is for inputting audio data. The transmission device 17B is for transmitting the input audio data to the reception device 100H.

  The notification device 18 is for notifying the output possible time of the reception device 100H. The notification device 18 may be a device that notifies by voice, for example. Further, the notification device 18 may be a device that notifies by displaying the output possible time. The charging device 20 is for charging the receiving device 100H. When receiving apparatus 100H is arranged at a predetermined position of transmitting apparatus 500, charging apparatus 20 starts charging the secondary battery of receiving apparatus 100H.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining functions of the audio data output apparatus according to the eleventh embodiment. The receiving device 100H included in the audio data output device 100G of the present embodiment has the same functional configuration as the controller 100F of the tenth embodiment.

  In the receiving device 100H of the present embodiment, the specific process execution unit 110 executes a process of receiving and outputting audio data. The consumption current calculation unit 120 calculates an average value of consumption current during output of audio data. Based on the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210 and the average value of the current consumption, the processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the audio data output possible time as an executable processing amount. The notification control unit 151 causes the transmission apparatus 500 to notify the available output time calculated by the processing amount calculation unit 130.

  The transmission device 500 of this embodiment includes a notification unit 510, a charging unit 520, a charging time calculation unit 530, and a transmission unit 540. Upon receiving an instruction from the communication control unit 151, the notification unit 510 notifies the user of the output available time by the notification device 18. In addition, the notification unit 510 of the present embodiment can also notify the user of the required charging time described later.

  When charging unit 520 detects that receiving device 100 </ b> H is connected, charging unit 520 starts charging battery unit 210 by charging device 20. The charging time calculation unit 530 calculates the required charging time for the battery unit 210. The transmission unit 540 transmits audio data stored in the memory device 15 or the like to the reception device 100H.

  The operation of the audio data output device 100G of this embodiment will be described below. When the receiving apparatus 100H is separated from the transmitting apparatus 500, the transmitting apparatus 500 of the present embodiment detects that the connection with the receiving apparatus 100H has been disconnected. When the connection is disconnected, the transmission device 500 notifies the output unit of the voice data received from the notification control unit 151 of the reception device 100H immediately before the notification unit 510 via the notification device 18.

  In addition, when the receiving device 100H is arranged on the transmitting device 500, the transmitting device 500 detects a connection with the receiving device 100H. When transmitting device 500 is connected to receiving device 100H, charging unit 520 starts charging battery unit 210. Further, the charging time calculation unit 530 calculates the required charging time based on the remaining capacity of the battery unit 210. The notification unit 510 notifies the user of the calculated required charging time.

  In the present embodiment, with the above configuration, the user can determine whether the receiving device 100H needs to be charged before using the receiving device 100H, and can prompt the user to charge at an appropriate timing. In addition, the user can be notified of when the receiving device 100H can use it next time.

  In addition, although the receiving apparatus 100H of the present embodiment has been described as having no notification unit, the present invention is not limited to this. The receiving device 100H of the present embodiment may include a notification unit. The notification means provided in the receiving device 100H may be included in the output device 12, for example, and may notify the output possible time by voice. The notification means provided in the receiving device 100H may be a lighting means such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In this case, for example, the available output time may be notified by turning on when the available output time is shorter than a predetermined time.

  Further, when the receiving device 100H of the present embodiment has a notification unit, it can be realized with the same functional configuration as that of the portable device of the first embodiment to the fourth embodiment.

  In the audio data output device 100G of this embodiment, the processing amount calculation unit 130 may be provided in the transmission device 500. In this case, when the connection with the receiving device 100H is disconnected, the transmitting device 500 calculates the output possible time based on the remaining capacity of the immediately preceding battery unit 210 and notifies the notification unit 520 of the calculated output possible time.

  Further, in the audio data output device 100G of the present embodiment, the current consumption calculation unit 120 and the processing amount calculation unit 130 may be provided in the transmission device 500. In this case, the current consumption calculation unit 120 transmits the remaining capacity when the connection between the transmission apparatus 500 and the reception apparatus 100H is disconnected, the remaining capacity when the connection between the transmission apparatus 500 and the reception apparatus 100H is detected, An average value of current consumption is calculated based on the time during which the connection between the device 500 and the receiving device 100H has been disconnected. The processing amount calculation unit 130 calculates the output possible time based on the average value of the current consumption and the remaining capacity.

  As mentioned above, although this invention has been demonstrated based on each embodiment, this invention is not limited to the requirements shown in the said embodiment. With respect to these points, the gist of the present invention can be changed without departing from the scope of the present invention, and can be appropriately determined according to the application form.

100 to 100C portable device 100D DVD player 100E portable navigation device 100F controller 100G audio data output device 100H receiving device 110 specific processing execution unit 120 current consumption calculation unit 130 throughput calculation unit 140 storage control unit 150 notification unit 160 setting unit 171 playback Time detection unit 172 Viewing availability determination unit 173 Guidance availability determination unit 200 Battery pack 210 Battery unit 220 Monitoring IC
230 Protection IC
240 Remaining amount detection unit

Claims (5)

A portable device that is driven by a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery and performs a predetermined process,
A remaining amount detecting means for detecting the remaining amount of the secondary battery;
Consumption current calculation means for calculating an average value of consumption current consumed by execution of the predetermined processing;
A processing amount calculation unit that calculates an executable amount of the predetermined process based on the remaining battery level detected by the remaining amount detection unit and an average value of the consumption current calculated by the consumption current calculation unit; ,
A portable device comprising: notification means for notifying a user of the portable device of an executable processing amount of the predetermined process calculated by the processing amount calculation means. The notification means includes
The portable device according to claim 1, which is means for notifying the executable processing amount by voice. The notification means includes
The portable device according to claim 1, which is means for displaying the executable processing amount. A notification method by a portable device that is driven by a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery and executes a predetermined process,
A remaining amount detecting procedure for detecting a remaining amount of the secondary battery;
A consumption current calculation procedure for calculating an average value of consumption current consumed by execution of the predetermined process;
A processing amount calculation procedure for calculating a feasible amount of the predetermined processing based on the remaining battery level and the average value of the current consumption;
A notification procedure for notifying a user of the portable device of an executable processing amount of the predetermined process. A notification program that is driven by a chargeable / dischargeable secondary battery and executed in a portable device that executes a predetermined process,
In the portable device,
A remaining amount detecting step for detecting a remaining amount of the secondary battery;
A consumption current calculation step of calculating an average value of consumption current consumed by execution of the predetermined process;
A processing amount calculating step for calculating an executable amount of the predetermined processing based on the remaining battery level and the average value of the current consumption;
A notification program for executing a notification step of notifying a user of the portable device of an executable processing amount of the predetermined processing.

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